I have to lean toward the Hiwassee because of several reasons. The scenery and easy access of course. It is a lot less technical than the S.Holston, but it can't match the quality of fish. I learned to fish for trout on this river. A short time later, I learned the most exciting way to fish for trout.......with a fly rod. Lots of days between classes and part-time work were spent on the river. I'm just now learning the S.Holston and I may change my mind later, but its the beautiful Hiwassee for now.